Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Panamanian Buses

As requested, here's a youtube video Panamian Buses that shows some buses in Panama. Sorry about the music on it, but it does show a decent variety and there's plenty more videos on the Suggestions panel - or you can just google search "Panama buses". Some of the modifications are a question in taste, but it does make public transportation more colorful and fun. Enjoy!

I have a lot of family in Panama, and the buses are something I clearly remember even though I was about 11 years old when I was there last. I don't know all the dynamics, but I'm pretty sure all the buses are privately owned and don't operate on any type of mandated schedule - it's more like the bus operators are there to help move the community and get payed directly for their services. It's definitely a cultural attraction and as you can see, there is a sense of pride in their vehicles and there is usually no shortage of passengers. Could this be something to learn from... can artists make public transportation more attractive to people?

2 comments:

Reminds me of filipino jeepneys! They're made from old US military jeeps from WWII. It's one of the main ways people get around. It's interesting how it was once an informal economy but has become so widely utilized that it's now government regulated.